indiana.edu
Stormwater
Stormwater is rain or snow melt which has run off the land including hard, “impervious” surfaces like roads, roofs and car parks. Traditionally stormwater has been piped away from these hard surfaces and discharged untreated into the nearest waterway (e.g. - stream, beach, harbor, and wetland). Early studies of urban storm runoff on State Waters showed a negative correlation with the amount of impervious surface and urbanization to health and biodiversity of the waterways. It is now proven that stormwater runoff is a major source of pollution and we are beginning to take the necessary preventative steps to minimize its effects.In February 2005, Indiana University submitted Part C of the NPDES Phase II permit application for their Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP). The SWQMP outlines Indiana University’s commitments to implementing minimum control measures and best management practices in order to have as little of an impact on the environment as possible. In April 2005, IUB received a Notice of Sufficiency, legally binding them to the SWQMP.
Our modern lifestyles are a major contributor to stormwater pollution, delegating the responsibilities associated with managing stormwater to both a regional and individual level. There is no simple solution. But by reducing or eliminating the amount of pollutants allowed to be washed away, we can limit the detrimental effects associated with stormwater runoff; helping ensure a pristine and viable environment for generations to come.
- Commonly Asked Questions
- IU's Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP)
- Report Stormwater Violations on Campus
- Test your knowledge about stormwater by taking a survey
- Campus Map